SCTAC to Host MAFFS Exercise
SCTAC will host over 500 military and civilian personnel and 18 aircraft that are participating in the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS) exercise from April 26-May 2, 2010. MAFFS is a self-contained reusable 3000-gallon aerial fluid dispense system that allows Lockheed C-130 cargo/utility aircraft to be converted to wildland firefighting air tankers. The objective of the MAFFS program is to provide emergency capability to supplement the existing commercial air tanker support of wildfires. This joint program, which is instituted by the U.S. Forest Service, involves the 145 Airlift Wing (AW) (NCANG), the 153 AW (WYANG), the 146 AW (CAANG), and the 302 AW (AFR).

Donaldson Field is uniquely qualified to host the exercise. It has runways and tarmac areas suitable for the equipment, and has limited impact on Greenville community's other airports. The MAFFS exercise only visits the Upstate and Donaldson Field once every five years, and with so many potential visitors to the area for the week, we expect an economic impact on the region. It is an honor for SCTAC to host this exercise and this exciting opportunity for our economic community.
On April 29, 2010 a media/VIP day will be arranged for a special demonstration fly over to drop the large water cargo on the runway. The exercise will be conducted the last week of April 2010 with an estimated 90 flights per day over the course of several days.
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SCTAC's new ad combines the aviation aspect of the Center with accomodations to business and technology companies. The South Carolina Technology and Aviation Center's runway can handle virtually any aircraft, from corporate jets to the Space Shuttle. It's what makes us South Carolina's most unique business address. And if "we can accomodate the space shuttle, then your business should be no problem!"
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Board Spotlight: Liz Seman
Seman was elected in 2008 to represent District 24 of Greenville County. She has lived in Greenville since 1999 and began her career for non-profit organizations with the American Red Cross. Seman currently serves as Executive Director for Meals on Wheels.
Prior to being elected to County Council, Liz was appointed to the Greenville County Redevelopment Authority Board. She now serves on the Board of Directors for Greenville Forward and is a member of Non-Profit Alliance at the Chamber of Commerce. She is also a member of Downtown Rotary and a graduate of Leadership Greenville Class XXVII. Seman was also named one of Greenville's Top 25 under 35 in 2003.
In 2009, Seman was appointed to the Board of Directors for the South Carolina Technology and Aviation Center, and currently serves as Board Secretary.
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Tenant Features: SCTAC FBO's
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AvServe and Donaldson Jet Center serve a unique purpose at SC-TAC. Each Fixed Based Operator provides efficient and professional aircraft needs. Having two capable FBO's within the Center provides an advantage for all of those interested in flight information, maintenance or fuel services.
AvServe offers chartered flights, flight training, aircraft maintenance and accomodations for all visitors and business personnel.
Donaldson Jet Center is the oldest full service FBO at Donaldson Field, with over 75 years in the FBO/General Aviation field. DJC also operates a state-approved flight school.
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A Time of Remembrance
A reunion for everyone (officers, enlisted or civilian) who served or worked at Donaldson Air Base will be held May 14-17, 2010 in Greenville, SC.
With a theme of "A Time of Remembrance", the reunion will be held at Embassy Suites Golf Resort and Conference Center on Verdae Boulevard.
Activities will include a trolley tour around downtown Greenville and SCTAC, a barbeque featuring special guests, and a closing banquet featuring Lt. General Gary Mears, who served at Donaldson.
For more information, or to make reservations, please contact Keith Holmquist at 864-226-6869. Hotel reservations must be made by April 14, 2010.
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Aircraft Maintenance Technology Student Receives Scholarship
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Kierre Whitty, a student in Greenville Technical College's Aircraft Maintenance Technology program, located at SCTAC, has received the Horizon Air Technical Training Scholarship. This contribution is awarded by the Association for Women in Aviation Maintenance.
Recipients of the Horizon Air Scholarship may choose from any of the professional courses offered by the regional airline in Oregon. These courses include improving maintenance activities, important safety issues, and other standard operating procedures.
Whitty is only one of three female students in Greenville Tech Aircraft Maintenance Technology program. |
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SCTAC has partnered with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) to utilize the Center in the event of a national emergency. SCTAC agrees to allow state and federal vehicles access to roadways and grounds to deliver portable lavatories, lighting and electrical needs, as well as food and water.
SCTAC would serve as management for the Regional Commodity Staging Area that supports emergency resupply of life saving commodities and resources to Upstate counties.
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